Toxic megacolon and inflammatory bowel disease
Toxic megacolon occurs when the colon swells to many times its normal size. It is most commonly caused by severe inflammation and ulceration from ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, which weaken muscles in the colon.
Over time, holes (perforations) may develop in the colon, and stool may spill into the abdominal cavity, causing a serious infection.
Toxic megacolon is an emergency situation requiring immediate medical and surgical treatment. If it is not treated, death may occur.
| Author | Monica Rhodes |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Michele Cronen |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Associate Editor | Terrina Vail |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology |
| Last Updated | October 24, 2006 |
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
October 24, 2006
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